Nintendo Switch OLED release: What to know before you buy
The latest Switch model features a 7-inch OLED display, enhanced sound and increased storage. Unfortunately, though, securing one won't be easy.
OLED displays have improved pops of color and vibrancy compared to standard LCD screens since each pixel generates its own light. As tech expert Whitson Gordon explained, that means pixels in dark areas can turn themselves off entirely for perfect, inky blacks.
However, the new Switch has the same 720p resolution as the regular model, so you won’t notice much difference in that department. The battery life (up to 9 hours) and internals, including CPU and RAM, are also identical to the regular Switch.
Just like previous versions, the OLED model is a hybrid console, meaning it can be played on the TV using the dock, on a tabletop using the stand and in handheld mode with the controllers attached to the sides.
The announcement comes as the gaming world continues to grapple with a global chip shortage sparked by pandemic-related shutdowns, which has made purchasing game consoles more difficult in recent months. The shortage has widely affected gaming and tech giants like Sony, Microsoft and Apple.
As one of the company’s most popular consoles, Nintendo sold 28.8 million Switch consoles in the year ended March 31 and the Switch’s life-to-date sales is at nearly 85 million units shipped worldwide since 2017. Nintendo expects to sell 25.5 million consoles this financial year.
Recently, Nintendo of America announced that Bluetooth capabilities are finally available on the Nintendo Switch following a new software update. Those with a Switch device — including the new OLED model — will be able to pair with both wireless controllers and audio devices, including wireless bluetooth headphones.
The Nintendo Switch OLED model is available worldwide starting today for $349.99.
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